Monday, May 13, 2013

Pentagram Vs. Pentacle



So, I notice that "pentacle" and "pentagram" get used interchangeably, however, they are different. The main difference as you may notice in the picture is that the pentagram is just the 5 pointed star whereas the pentacle has a circle around the star. That is the noticeable difference. They also have a slightly different meaning because of this.

The Pentagram represents the 5 elements of Wicca: Earth, Fire, Water, Air, and Spirit. The 4 lower points represent the material realm and elements (Earth, Fire, Water, and Air) whereas the upward point represents the Spirit and points toward the Divine. The Spirit point may also represent the mind/spirit over matter.


The Pentacle is a pentagram which has been encircled. When the pentagram is encircled, this is said to represent the elements bound in harmony with one another. It also creates a center point of energy which is used in rituals to consecrate and energize ritual items.

Both these symbols, when worn, can be used as protection. Although, the pentacle and pentagram are shown upright and are worn upright they also have meanings when the point is down. When the pentagram or pentacle are worn with the point down it is said to represent matter over the mind/spirit. It is also the symbol for a second degree Gardnerian Witch. However, most people (even some Wiccans) consider the inverted pentagram or pentacle to be a symbol of blasphemy and Satanism. 

Here's a link to an interesting website that speaks of a different way to define the pentagram and pentacle.Its always good to look at different points of views to help draw your own conclusions!

2 comments:

  1. Hi, I'm trying to find out if a inverted pentagram inside an upright pentagram to infinity (with an upright pentacle on the outside / uppermost). so starting at the outermost it would be Upright Pentacle, Inverted Pentagram, upright pentagram, inverted pentagram and so forth.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I can picture what you're describing but I'm not sure I understand your question. Are you asking if an inverted pentagram within an upright pentagram is indicative of infinity?

      Delete